Analytical Investigations of Thermo-Geometrical Parameters Effects on Heat Transfer and Performance of Longitudinal Radiating Fin

Abstract

In this work, analytical models are developed for determining temperature distribution, heat transfer and the efficiency of radiating fin. The developed models are used to investigate the effects of various thermo-geometric properties on the temperature distribution and consequently on the performance of the radiating fin. The effects of fin tip conditions on the thermal performance of the fin are also examined. From the results, it is shown that the variation in the thermo-geometric parameters (fin tip Biot number, modified Biot number and efficiency) of the fin has pronounced effects on the temperature distribution and consequently on the performance of the fin especially when a large temperature difference exists between the prime surface and the environment. The results obtained in this study serve as basis for determining the level of accuracy of any other approximation method use in the analysis of the problem and also, it could be used to improve the design of radiating fin in heat transfer equipment.